While it may not feel as though we had much of a summer this year, I’m more than ready for fall fashion, neutral tones and cosy layers to dominate my wardrobe once again as I pine for chai lattes and candles that smell like cinnamon buns. Already, the high street’s biggest fashion retailers have begun rolling out the ‘new in’ collections – and one retailer in particular has won me over big time this autumn.
New Look, for me at least, has always been considered to be one of the more affordable brands on the market – more spenny than Primark, but cheaper than the likes of River Island and Zara. A happy medium of cost and quality. This August, the retailer unveiled its latest initiative ‘Obsessed for Less’ – a value price range designed to combat the cost-of-living crisis.
The edit has been carefully curated to tap into the latest trends at budget-friendly prices. Think chic cargos and tailored trousers, denim maxi skirts and collegiate casual sweats in a mostly neutral colour palette, with the majority of styles coming in under £30. As such, New Look has fast become my go-to for AW23-wear.
One of my most recent purchases that has already achieved an impressive cost per wear is this tortoise shell satin midaxi skirt. Ask anyone (but more specifically, my nail technician) and they’ll tell you of my love for a tortie design, be it my nails, sunglasses or the heels of my favourite pair of boots. Leopard print’s 70s sister, it’s a neutral in its own right, but it really comes into its own in the cooler months.
Priced at £27.99, it comes in a midaxi length, crafted from a soft satin fabric and decorated in an all-over tortoiseshell print. Complete with a high elasticated waistband and bias cut it’s comfortable, versatile and incredibly flattering.
I’ve loved styling it with this black high neck ribbed sleeveless knit from independent Lula Boutique, alongside a pair of chunky brown platform boots from the same brand. A black belt with gold hardware elevates the look, tying in my everyday jewellery consisting of simple gold hoops, my engagement ring and Abbott Lyon name necklace. The Marks and Spencer faux leather cross body bag finishes this outfit beautifully, bringing a touch of quiet luxury while giving brands like Celine a run for their money.
Equally, this skirt would look chic with a plain neutral coloured tee and trainers for a casual look, or take it up a level with a cropped cami and slip-on mules. A brown vintage-style oversized leather jacket with a chocolate-coloured sweater would be a serious vibe, while I have the black ribbed vest in orange, which would play to its seventies aesthetic in a dreamy way.
Already, I’ve worn this look to an outdoor concert, dinner with the girls and a brunch date all in the space of a week, and have immediately put it in the wash ready to pack for my holiday. As we make our way into autumn, it’s a piece I’m going to be reaching for time and time again.
